FREDERICK D. MALEC; 95, of Maple Heights. Born June 21, 1925 and died on April 19, 2022, two months shy of his 96th birthday. Treasured husband for 67 years to the late Elsie T. (nee Zimmerman) Malec. Loving father of Audrey Schmidt (William), Daniel (Valerie), Diane Burk (Frank), and Julia Zevchek (Leonard); Devoted grandfather of Ernie (Theresa), Mark (Leanne), Jason (Trisha), Molly (Kurt), Amanda (Chad), Nicolas (Kaitlyn), Benjamin, Jessica (Drew), and Kimberly (Evan); Proud Great-Grandfather of 12 and Great-Great Grandfather of 5. Fred was a distinguished U.S. Navy WWII Veteran, Past Commander of VFW Post 2079, Quartermaster and Adjutant, Past President of Prazky Pepiku Club, Past President of the Military Order of Cooties Unit 19, Past Treasurer of Happy Chums Outing Club, a member of the American Legion Post 309, PLAV, the Maple Heights Catholic Club, St. Joseph Society No. 156 of the Czech Catholic Union, The Bicycle Club, Cleveland Polka Association and life member and past director of Ceska Sin Karlin Club. A parishioner of St. Therese Church and past parishioner of St. Wenceslas Church in Maple Heights. For many years, Fred was an accomplished musician as a drummer in the Malec Brothers Band, along with other bands, sharing his love of Czech music with others. He also played the trombone and marched in Memorial Day parades. Fred lived his 95 years to the fullest. He had a very large family and many friends who loved him and will truly miss him. He has left a void in many lives. Always the LIFE of the party, singing “I don’t want to go home, the party’s just begun!” Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Otto Sr. and Bertha (nee Dvorak) Malec and the following siblings, Otto Malec, Jr., Ralph Malec and Mildred Malec. Our sincere appreciation to Transitions Hospice and Elmcroft Senior Living for their kindness and the loving care given to our quick-witted father with the one-liners! In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions in Fred’s name to Our Lady of Lourdes Parish 3396 E. 55th Street Cleveland, OH 44127. Friends may call at the FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME 356 W. AURORA RD. (ST RT 82) SAGAMORE HILLS where Funeral Services will be held Monday at 9:00AM. VISITATION SUNDAY 4-8PM. Interment Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. Transportation is being provided to the cemetery by the family.
